The difference between chemical peel and microdermabrasion treatment in Frederick MD

Handling skin concerns can be a confusing task if you attempt to do it on your own. At Washington Dermatology Center, Dr. Prussick and his experienced team help men and women correct a wide variety of medical and cosmetic skin conditions. At the core of our success is personalized treatment tailored to the patient. Two common dermatologic treatments that may seem the same are a chemical peel and microdermabrasion. In order to help our patients from Frederick, and other MD communities, choose services, we explain the differences.

Microdermabrasion

Treating the skin with microdermabrasion is a great way to encourage the rapid turnover of skin cells. Microdermabrasion also stimulates collagen production, which aids in the maintenance of supple, youthful skin. Microdermabrasion treats the skin with tiny crystal-like particles. These particles are blown onto the skin via a small handpiece, and are immediately suctioned back into the device. The effect of these fine particles hitting the skin is the removal of the dead, dull skin cells that lie on the surface.

Microdermabrasion can be performed on a monthly basis to exfoliate the skin, addressing a number of the signs of aging. This form of treatment is also beneficial to the skin by maximizing the absorption of serums and creams designed for specific intent. Microdermabrasion is gentle, far less aggressive than dermabrasion, capable of producing beautiful results with very little downtime, if any.

Chemical peels

Also designed for exfoliation and collagen production, chemical peels take a different approach than microdermabrasion. The nice thing about chemical peel treatment is that the retexturization of the skin is tailored to the individual through adjustments made to the chemical solution and the amount of time the chosen solution remains on the skin. Chemical peels can be adjusted to light, medium, and deep, successfully addressing a number of concerns such as acne or fine lines and wrinkles.

Most chemical peels do not actually peel the skin in an aggressive way. Light and medium peels may produce mild flaking and redness, but it is short-lived. Deep chemical peels will likely produce flaking for a period of five to 7 days. Optimal results often come through a series of treatments, performed weeks apart.

We provide care that recognizes your unique needs. To address your skin concerns, contact the Frederick or Rockville office of Dr. Ronald Prussick.